Donald Trump Evacuated from Rally After Gunshots Fired in Butler, Pennsylvania
Former President Donald J. Trump was evacuated from the stage at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, today after what appeared to be gunshots rang out from the crowd. The incident occurred around 2:00 PM EDT at the Butler County Fairgrounds, where Trump was addressing supporters.
According to witnesses, Trump was in the midst of presenting a chart on border crossing statistics when several loud bangs interrupted the event. The former president was seen clutching his neck and exhibiting signs of distress as security personnel rapidly moved him off the stage.
Videos from the scene show Trump being hurriedly escorted to a waiting vehicle, with what appeared to be blood visible on his face. Emergency medical teams were on-site and transported him to a local hospital for evaluation. The severity of his injuries has not yet been confirmed, and there has been no official statement on his condition.
Local and federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, have launched an investigation into the incident. The area surrounding the fairgrounds has been sealed off as authorities conduct their inquiry. Witnesses have been interviewed, and forensic teams are examining the scene for evidence.
In a brief statement, Trump’s spokesperson confirmed that the former president is receiving medical attention and thanked supporters for their concern. “President Trump was taken to a nearby hospital for precautionary reasons. We will provide more updates as we have them,” the spokesperson said.
President Joe Biden, who was briefed on the situation, expressed his concern. “I am deeply concerned about today’s events in Butler. My thoughts are with President Trump and all those affected by this frightening situation,” Biden said in a statement.
The rally, part of Trump’s ongoing campaign for the 2024 presidential election, was attended by hundreds of supporters who were left shaken by the sudden violence. The event was immediately canceled following the incident.